January 27

Willy Fritsch was one of Germany's most popular actors in the 1920s and 1930s. He gained fame for his roles in musicals and romantic comedies. He often co-starred with actress Lilian Harvey in films such as Der Kongress tanzt. He successfully transitioned from silent cinema to talkies. His charismatic screen presence made him a heartthrob of his generation. He continued acting in films and television until his later years.

Howard McNear had a long career in radio, film, and television. He appeared in popular radio programs before transitioning to on-screen roles. McNear portrayed the lovable barber Floyd Lawson on The Andy Griffith Show from 1961 to 1967. He appeared in films like Singin' in the Rain and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance. His warm demeanor and comic timing endeared him to audiences. Despite a stroke in 1963, he continued acting until his retirement.

Michael Ripper appeared in over 200 films and television programs. He was a regular performer in Hammer Film Productions' horror series. Ripper often portrayed working-class characters, servants, and comedic sidekicks. He also appeared in notable films by directors such as Alfred Hitchcock. His memorable performances earned him recognition among genre fans. Ripper’s career spanned from the 1930s to the late 1980s.

Donna Reed (1921–1986) was an American actress whose career spanned film and television over four decades. She won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her performance in “From Here to Eternity” (1953). Reed starred as the wholesome matriarch in the hit television series “The Donna Reed Show,” which ran from 1958 to 1966. Her graceful screen presence and ability to convey warmth made her a beloved figure in American households. Reed began her career under contract at MGM, appearing in classics such as “It's a Wonderful Life” and “The Man Who Loved Women.” Beyond acting, she was an advocate for child welfare and the arts. Reed's legacy endures through her iconic roles and contributions to entertainment.

Born in 1924, Brian Rix rose to fame in the 1950s with his work on the Whitehall farces, becoming a household name in British comedy. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, he starred in numerous stage and television productions, showcasing his flair for slapstick humor. He also produced and directed stage shows, contributing significantly behind the scenes to British theatre. In 1992, he was created a life peer as Baron Rix and took a seat in the House of Lords, where he championed social causes. As president of Mencap, he became a leading advocate for the rights of adults with learning disabilities until his death in 2016.

Born in 1926, Ingrid Thulin trained at the Royal Dramatic Theatre School in Stockholm before joining Bergman's cinematic ensemble. She delivered acclaimed performances in classics including 'Wild Strawberries', 'The Silence', and 'Cries and Whispers'. Known for her intense gaze and emotional depth, Thulin became one of Sweden's most respected actresses. She won awards at Cannes and Venice film festivals, cementing her international reputation. Beyond film, Thulin performed on stage across Europe and later directed theatre productions until her death in 2004.

Born in 1929 in Bangalore, Michael Craig established himself as a leading actor in British cinema. He appeared in a wide range of films during the 1950s and 1960s, earning acclaim for his dramatic performances. Craig also wrote screenplays spanning science fiction and thriller genres, showcasing his versatility. On television, he took roles in popular series and TV movies, bringing depth to every character he portrayed. His stage work in London's West End and touring productions further demonstrated his breadth as a performer.

Troy Donahue was an American actor who rose to fame in the late 1950s as a Warner Bros. contract player. He became a teen idol after starring in romantic dramas such as A Summer Place (1959). Donahue’s screen persona epitomized the clean-cut, boy-next-door image of his era. In the 1960s, he appeared in European productions and television series before his popularity waned. Despite later career challenges, he continued to act in films and TV until his health declined. Donahue’s early work left a lasting impact on the teen movie genre and pop culture.

Born in 1940, Cromwell made his film debut in the 1970s and gained widespread recognition for his supporting role in the family film Babe (1995), earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. He has appeared in films such as L.A. Confidential, The Queen, and Hacksaw Ridge, showcasing his versatility across genres. On television, he is known for roles in American Horror Story and Six Feet Under. Cromwell is also an environmental and animal rights activist, serving on the boards of several advocacy organizations. He continues to work steadily in independent and mainstream productions, making him one of the most enduring character actors in Hollywood.

Born Harry Reynolds in 1940, Rey adopted his stage name as he began performing stand-up comedy in the 1960s. He appeared in a variety of films, including Friday, White Men Can't Jump, and I'm Goin' to Get You, Black Dynamite. On television, he was featured in series such as Martin and The Jamie Foxx Show, showcasing his comedic timing. As a screenwriter, he contributed to several television specials and comedy sketches. Rey was celebrated for his energetic stage presence and ability to connect with audiences. He continued to perform live and on screen until his passing in 2015, leaving a legacy in both comedy and film.

Born in Detroit in 1942, Witherspoon first gained recognition as a stand-up comedian in clubs and on television. He appeared in comedy specials on HBO and Showtime, showcasing his observational humor. Witherspoon's breakthrough film role came as Willie 'Pops' Jones in Friday (1995), a character he reprised in several sequels. On television, he had recurring roles in The Wayans Bros., The Boondocks (voice role), and The Tracy Morgan Show. His warm presence and comedic timing made him a beloved figure in both film and television comedy. He left an indelible mark on comedic cinema and inspired many emerging comedians.

Born in Riga in 1948, Baryshnikov trained at the Vaganova Academy in Leningrad. He defected to Canada in 1974 and later became a U.S. citizen. As a principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre and New York City Ballet, he earned international acclaim. He founded the Baryshnikov Arts Center in New York City to support emerging artists. He has acted in films and television, including The Turning Point and Sex and the City. His enduring influence has shaped modern dance and choreography.